Neapolitan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together delightful flavors in a stunning presentation, the Neapolitan Cake is just what you need! This cake is a true celebration of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, layered to create a visually appealing and delicious treat. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to impress your family or for special gatherings like birthdays and anniversaries. Each slice not only looks beautiful but offers a burst of flavor that will make anyone’s day brighter!

What makes this Neapolitan Cake so special is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to fit any occasion or personal preference, making it a beloved recipe in many households. Plus, the joy it brings when served is simply priceless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking this cake is straightforward and fun!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every layer of this delightful dessert.
• Looks Impressive: The vibrant colors of the layers make it a stunning centerpiece for any table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can bake the layers in advance, making it convenient for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor Combo: The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry creates a taste sensation that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Neapolitan Cake are simple and wholesome. Most are pantry staples that come together beautifully to create something truly special. Here’s what you need:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 2 tsp strawberry extract

Variations

The beauty of this Neapolitan Cake recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations to suit your taste:

• Swap the extract: Use pureed fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract for an extra burst of flavor.
• Add texture: Consider mixing in chopped nuts or drizzling caramel sauce between layers for added crunch and sweetness.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary preferences.
• Change the frosting: Experiment with different frostings like whipped cream or fruit-flavored buttercream to match your layers.

How to Make Neapolitan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three round cake pans. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking, making it easier to remove the cakes once they’re done.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside. This step ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps the cake rise perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a lighter texture in your cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Milk

Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by milk. Gradually add dry ingredients until just combined. Adding eggs one by one helps maintain an even mix while ensuring the batter doesn’t get overworked.

Step 5: Divide Batter

Divide the batter into three bowls: leave one plain for vanilla; mix cocoa powder into the second for chocolate; add strawberry extract to the third. This gives each layer its wonderful flavor profile!

Step 6: Bake Layers

Pour each batter into prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Baking them separately allows each layer to develop its unique taste.

Step 7: Cool & Assemble

Allow cakes to cool completely before stacking them with frosting between layers. Cooling is crucial because warm cakes can cause frosting to melt—no one wants that!

Now you’re ready to serve up some smiles with this gorgeous Neapolitan Cake! Enjoy every bite as your friends and family savor this sweet treat together!

Pro Tips for Making Neapolitan Cake

Creating the perfect Neapolitan Cake is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of love. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out as delightful as it sounds:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature eggs and milk helps create a smoother batter, resulting in a more tender cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined preserves the delicate texture of the cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense outcome.

• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different! Use a toothpick inserted into the center of each layer to check if it comes out clean—this ensures your cakes are perfectly baked.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allowing your cakes to cool completely prevents the frosting from melting, ensuring neat layers and beautiful presentation.

• Experiment with Flavors: While this recipe uses strawberry extract, feel free to mix in pureed fresh strawberries or even other fruit extracts for a unique twist!

How to Serve Neapolitan Cake

Serving Neapolitan Cake is an opportunity to show off its charming layers and vibrant colors. Here are some creative ways to present this stunning dessert that will wow your guests:

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream on top adds a light, creamy contrast that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

• Fresh Berries: Scatter fresh strawberries or raspberries around the plate for an extra burst of freshness and color that enhances both presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic combination of warm cake with cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cake, making for a well-rounded dessert experience.

• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over individual slices adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Neapolitan Cake will not only taste amazing but also look like a masterpiece worthy of any celebration! Enjoy every slice, and remember—the joy of baking is as much about sharing as it is about savoring.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Neapolitan Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can bake it ahead of time for parties or special occasions and store it properly to maintain its delicious flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it.
• Store leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each layer of the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped layers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, being careful not to dry it out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Neapolitan Cake.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of strawberry extract in Neapolitan Cake?

Yes! You can substitute strawberry extract with pureed fresh strawberries. This will enhance the flavor and add a lovely natural sweetness.

How long does Neapolitan Cake last?

When stored properly, leftover Neapolitan Cake can last up to 2 days at room temperature or about a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

What makes this Neapolitan Cake special?

The combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry layers creates a beautiful visual and flavor experience that is perfect for any celebration or cozy gathering.

Can I make this Neapolitan Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to create this beautiful Neapolitan Cake! Its vibrant layers and delightful flavors are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Remember, baking is all about sharing love and happiness with those around you. Enjoy making this cake, and I’d love to hear about your experience—happy baking!